Florence Elementary School
San Diego, CA 92103
Phone: (619) 344-5900
Fax: (619) 725-4028
District: San Diego Unified School District
GreatSchools Rating
public • Grades KG,1,2,3,4,5 • 213 students
Florence Elementary School, a public school located in San Diego, CA, serves grades K-5 in the San Diego Unified School District.It has received a GreatSchools Rating of 7 out of 10, based on a variety of school quality measures.
Florence Elementary School is a public school located in San Diego, CA. 213 students attend Florence Elementary School.
School Ratings
| Category | Rating | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Test Scores | 6/10 | The Test Score Rating examines how students at this school performed on standardized tests compared with other schools in the state. The Test Rating was created using 2025 California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) data from California Department of Education, and using 2025 California Science Test data from California Department of Education. |
| Student Growth | 7/10 | The Student Progress Rating measures whether students at this school are making academic progress over time based on student growth data provided by the Department of Education. Specifically, this rating looks at how much progress individual students have made on state assessments during the past year or more, how this performance aligns with expected progress based on a student growth model established by the state Department of Education, and how this school's growth data compares to other schools in the state. The Growth Rating was created using 2025 Student growth data from California Department of Education. |
Posted: November 20, 2025
Our daughter has been part of the Florence Elementary family since TK, and now that shes in 5th grade, we can confidently say this school has been an incredible place for her to grow, learn, and thrive. Every year, she has been surrounded by caring teachers who truly see her as an individual and support her both academically and emotionally.
One of the things that stands out the most is how visible and engaged the principal is. She is out on campus every day, greeting students, visiting classrooms, and building relationships. She knows the students by namesomething that makes our daughter feel genuinely seen and valued.
From her first days learning letters and making friends in TK to confidently tackling complex projects in 5th grade, she has always felt safe, supported, and challenged in the best possible ways. The staff goes above and beyond to build a strong school community, and the positive culture shows in everythingfrom communication to classroom environment to the pride our daughter feels being a Florence student.
We couldnt be happier with her journey here. Florence has given her a solid foundation, wonderful memories, and a genuine love of school. Highly recommend!
Posted: November 20, 2025
Posted: November 20, 2025
Posted: November 20, 2025
Posted: November 20, 2025
Posted: November 20, 2025
Posted: November 20, 2025
Posted: November 20, 2025
Posted: November 20, 2025
The principal is never available. You have to set up a meeting and once you have done sonyou will be igorend. The main office ES is very rude and unprofessional about her job. They are not here to help but to give opinions thats it. I sopke to her about situations with my sibling and she was saying that i was wrong. Did not let me speak to principal and didnt eve. Set up a meeting for me. This schoom assitance for parents is absolutely horrible!!!
Posted: November 20, 2025
Posted: November 20, 2025
Posted: November 20, 2025
Posted: November 20, 2025
Posted: November 20, 2025
Posted: November 20, 2025
Posted: November 20, 2025
Posted: June 11, 2025
We feel incredibly fortunate to have started our sons school journey here. His TK teachers, Mrs. Lawrence and Ms. Sheena, were exceptional warm, kind, and truly invested in each childs growth. They created such a supportive and nurturing classroom that our son felt safe, happy, and excited to go to school every day.
Beyond the caring environment, the academic foundation they provided was outstanding. Through thoughtful, engaging lessons, our son learned so much and grew in confidence, curiosity, and independence. Weve seen such a difference in, socially and academically, and we truly feel hes ready for kindergarten.
The school itself also has a wonderful sense of community. Throughout the year, we connected with parents from other grades who echoed our feelings its a place where families feel welcomed and supported. Were so grateful for this strong, loving, and enriching start to our sons education.
Posted: June 11, 2025
Posted: June 11, 2025
Posted: June 11, 2025
Posted: June 11, 2025
Posted: June 11, 2025
Posted: June 11, 2025
Posted: June 6, 2025
Our child joined this school in the fourth grade, speaking very little English at the time. From the very beginning, she felt supported by both her teachers and classmates. Now, as she graduates, she speaks English fluently, has made great friends, and feels comfortable and confident in her community.
This incredible progress would not have been possible without the guidance, care, and dedication of Mrs. Holcomb. We are truly grateful for everything she has done!
Posted: June 6, 2025
Posted: June 6, 2025
Posted: June 6, 2025
Posted: June 6, 2025
Posted: June 6, 2025
Posted: June 6, 2025
Posted: June 6, 2025
Posted: June 3, 2025
Posted: June 3, 2025
Posted: June 3, 2025
Posted: June 3, 2025
Posted: June 3, 2025
Posted: June 3, 2025
Posted: June 3, 2025
Both my children attended Florence and they had an amazing elementary education. The teachers were attentive, patient, caring, and most importantly focus on their learning needs. I am forever grateful to the school staff for preparing my children for middle school.
Posted: June 3, 2025
Posted: June 1, 2025
Mis dos hijas asistieron. Una ya salio y la otra sigue ahí. Aparte de ser una escuela chica tienen mejor atención con los niños. No se diga de las maestras súper profesionales y preparadas. Si recomiendo esta escuela para sus hijos.
Posted: June 1, 2025
Posted: June 1, 2025
Posted: June 1, 2025
Posted: June 1, 2025
Posted: June 1, 2025
Posted: June 1, 2025
Posted: June 1, 2025
Posted: May 30, 2025
I started late registration for my son for UTK and was told there was a spot at Florence. It has been the biggest blessing. The staff at the front made enrollment so easy and pleasant. That was the first interaction and definitely set the tone. The teachers and principal are all so amazing. They work very well together and very inclusive with the students and parents. My son never wanted to miss school. He loved his teachers. He has learned so much in his first year and we are excited to come back next year.
They have a big buddy system where 5th graders get partnered with the UTK students and do many activities together throughout the year. It was beautiful to see the bonds they create. Gives 5th graders a chance to make a positive impact for the little ones. The little ones get the guidance and support they need in their first year by their big buddies.
Teachers are so wonderful. The amount of joy, patience and support they give all students is amazing. They definitely know how to get the kids to enjoy and love school. I was amazed on his much my son learned in his first year. He is now ready to take on kindergarten and it wouldnt be possible without his teachers.
The school has a very family oriented feel with all staffing and students. They do many activities for the students all year round. Parents are always welcomed. I was so excited to be part of the activities and be able to volunteer and attend most events. I look forward to see what the next year brings.
Posted: May 30, 2025
Posted: May 30, 2025
Posted: May 30, 2025
Posted: May 30, 2025
Posted: May 30, 2025
Posted: May 30, 2025
Posted: May 30, 2025
Posted: June 13, 2022
What a hidden gem of a school. You have seasoned principal, teachers and staff that work so well as a team. You can tell they all really like each other. We were extremely lucky to snag a UTK spot here for my 4 year old a year before UTK gets rolled out to the rest of the District. With a 24 to 2 class ratio and sometimes has even a third teacher with science class once a week. By the end of the year my 4 year old was reading Beginning Bob Books, writing her name and other small words and starting basic math. She truly got a leg up on her academics and social skills going to this school. But most importantly she developed a love of learning and a love for school.
Posted: June 13, 2022
Posted: June 13, 2022
Posted: June 13, 2022
Posted: June 13, 2022
Posted: June 13, 2022
Posted: June 13, 2022
Posted: February 23, 2022
Posted: February 23, 2022
Posted: February 23, 2022
Posted: February 23, 2022
Posted: February 23, 2022
Posted: February 23, 2022
Posted: February 23, 2022
Posted: February 23, 2022
I am grateful that I can trust the teachers and staff as they truly care about the development of their students. Principal Conerty is wonderful, knows each students name, and greets people at the gates before school often. Mrs. Johnson-Walls is an incredible educator and my son has had a wonderful time in her class.
Posted: September 20, 2021
I only have experience with the UTK program and I have to say it is better than I could have imagined. The 2/20 ratio with a third helper is amazing. The dedicated space is huge and protected from the rest of the school and community. The daily picture grams we get is more than we could ever ask for. And most importantly, my kid LOVES going to school. I couldn't ask for anything more. Keep up the amazing work. I thank you for all you do for my learner.
Posted: May 25, 2020
For the last four years, I've enjoyed being a part of a thriving learning community which focused on the whole person in context to developmental goals of K-5 students. My daughter and her classmates received a high quality education and will be better equipped with taken responsibility for their learning, advocating for themselves and demonstrating forbearance and empathy for others.
Posted: May 25, 2020
Florence staff demonstrated an almost seamless transition from on campus instruction to distant learning. Happy to see a premium placed on the student's well being vice homework completion.
Posted: May 25, 2020
Excellent teacher student relationships across the K-5 teacher landscape. Teachers make considerable efforts in ensuring their students are safe, and ready to learn. Regardless of time of the day at school, you can easily spot the student's happiness while they're learning.
Posted: May 25, 2020
The school staff is comprised of professionals who demonstrate on a regular basis a high caliber of social / emotional awareness, unquestioned empathy for the students and a passion for providing a high quality education.
Posted: May 25, 2020
Mrs. Alexis Conerty is a consummate professional and a remarkable learning community leader. Her visionary spirit, and culturally-aware engagement with the diverse student body, helped Florence to pivot into distant learning. Her ability to cultivate teamwork with the school staff speaks to the already proven learning community culture. Her leadership helped the vast majority of everyone involved, to stay align with what's important; The Florence Family: school staff, students, and their families, the surrounding Mission Hills/Hill Crest community.
Posted: May 25, 2020
Posted: May 25, 2020
Posted: September 25, 2019
There are very strong special education programs at this school and other support for children with different educational needs.
Posted: September 25, 2019
I have not heard or seen much with bullying at the school, but the school tries very hard to instill respect and compassion in students.
Posted: September 25, 2019
Our experience here has been fantastic -- this is a small school with caring staff. My child has been going here for several years, since kindergarten, and has really thrived at this school. There is a very diverse student population, which is also a wonderful aspect of the school.
Posted: September 25, 2019
Students are not overwhelmed with homework but there seems to be a nice balance of reading and math that is grade appropriate.
Posted: September 25, 2019
Every teacher that my child has had has been wonderful -- knowledgeable, caring and trying to help students do their best.
Posted: September 25, 2019
The Falcon Way is taught to all students and has, at its core, the components of integrity, compassion and respect.
Posted: September 25, 2019
The principal tries very hard to engage with parents and students, creating a welcoming atmosphere and encouraging participation from families.
Posted: April 4, 2018
Our experience at Florence has been incredible. Both of my kids will go here until middle school.
Posted: April 4, 2018
Posted: April 4, 2018
Posted: April 4, 2018
The Falcon way teaches children life skills as well as academics.
Posted: April 4, 2018
Mrs. Conerty is the BEST principal in every way.
Posted: April 4, 2018
Posted: April 4, 2018
Posted: October 9, 2017
Posted: October 9, 2017
Posted: October 9, 2017
Posted: October 9, 2017
Posted: October 9, 2017
Posted: October 9, 2017
I love this school! It is a smaller school with a friendly and safe atmosphere. My child's teachers have all been wonderful and have had lots of communication with me to share positive things as well as quickly address issues that arise. Mrs. Conerty is an effective principle who cares about the school and the children. I also really enjoy the Prime Time program at this school under Mr. Jaime's leadership.
Posted: October 9, 2017
Posted: June 17, 2016
I have 2 kids at Florence, finishing Kinder and 4th grade this year. So happy to have Ms. Conerty as new principal this year, she is so involved and has made fantastic changes. There is so much more communication now. The teachers are dedicated and caring; I have loved every single one so far. This is a small school, about 250-300 kids, and many are low-income. Behavior problems are statistically more of a problem in this demographic so the teachers definitely have their work cut out for them. I would not blame the teachers for not being able to handle problem students; I would blame a government who forces them to have up to 36 students per teacher. They are absolutely doing the best they can. It's true, the front office staff is not very customer-service friendly, but they aren't rude. The Prime Time Staff is great too. I don't understand the low ratings on here at all. Also, there is much less homework now that we have the new principal.
Posted: June 17, 2016
Posted: June 17, 2016
Posted: June 17, 2016
Posted: June 17, 2016
Posted: June 17, 2016
Posted: June 17, 2016
Posted: June 17, 2016
Florence is a wonderful, little school that gets better each year. My daughter has been there for 5 years and will be moving to middle school this Fall. There are amazing teachers at Florence who care about learning and work hard to provide a good education to a diverse student body. The new principal, Mrs. Conerty, is an enthusiastic, engaging professional who strives to improve the educational experience for all students. Communication with parents is much better this year. The newly formed PTA is gaining traction and has served students well. That's why numerous families from others parts of San Diego county send their kids to Florence. Their special ed teachers are spectacular; you'll have a hard time finding better teachers elsewhere. So if you like your children to have a fine education with passionate, caring teachers and a school that values substance over optics, then send them to Florence.
Posted: October 28, 2015
Posted: October 28, 2015
Posted: October 28, 2015
Posted: October 28, 2015
This is a very bad school. Teachers without motivation. Kids preoccupied with enormous amount of homework daily. Communication between parents and school is poorly established. School doesn't take any action in the case of bulling. Overall, pretty bad experience.
Posted: October 8, 2014
Excellent teaching staff. Most of the teachers at Florence have been there 10+ years and truly care and are dedicated tot heir students. It is not just a job for them.
Posted: April 10, 2014
Florence is an amazing elementary school with a community feel. Students feel as if they are part of a big family and are motivated to learn. My grandson is excited to go to school every day! He is in Transitional Kindergarten and is reading, writing, adding and subtracting! I am so impressed with the quality of teaching at this school.
Posted: August 20, 2013
I will immediately give this school 5 stars. I grew up in that school. The teachers love you and treat you like their own. Ms.Mackenzie was like my family. She was my 1-2nd grade teacher. I am now in 8th grade and we mail each other, go to the zoo together, I know her husband and cats like they are my family. I hated leaving that school it's like a home, every kid loves learning here. Ms. Fox, Ms. Murphy, Ms. Miller, and Ms. Mackenzie are astonishing teachers. I love them so much I always love visiting that school over and over. -A proud former student I had an amazing time there
Posted: May 13, 2013
The Majority of the school staff are very RUDE in the front office. The do not make you feel welcomed and treat you with little respect. I have not seen a lot of parent involvement with this School as they make comments about keeping the attendance numbers up to get better funding etc. The principal is LAZY and very unprofessional. The teacher my child has right now has poor communication skills with returning calls or emails when I have inquired updates regarding my child. The Prime Time Staff is great and are very professional and approachable and treat you with respect. The school staff should treat all of the parents good as our children attending their school pays their bills and keeps lots of food on the table for them. I only gave them 1 STAR as their was not a button for Negative Star! Oh and to boot the location is terrible located in the middle of a industrial area. Their is a Smog shop across the street and all Commercial Properties surrounding this school. I'm not sure how they even have lasted this long with the lack of service and bad attitude. Yes I'm a very disgruntled parent and look forward to move my child to a different school that is a better fit!
Posted: May 8, 2013
What stand out for this school is the prime time. Ms. Trei is wonderful, and her yourng team works very hard. The kids never get board because there are so many activities after school (in prime time). Teachers are great too. I am not sure why this school rated so low.
Posted: February 12, 2013
Teachers are wonderful here. Ms. Mckenzie, Mrs Holcomb and Mrs.Miller are fantastic and really love the kids and school. Makes a big difference
Posted: August 23, 2012
I am a single father and when it came time to enroll my preschooler I was scared, nervous and very naive. The ladies at Florence,( especially Mrs. Estill the principle) were so educational and supportive. My son is now going to the 6th grade and has graduated out of Florence. I am grateful to have had my son surrounded by the dedicated educators for 7 years.
Reviews provided by GreatSchools™
| # | Name | Type | City | State | Overall Rating | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mission Hills | Neighborhood/Subdivision | San Diego | CA | 0.2 mi | |
| 2 | Riverfront Condominium Rentals | Apartment Complex | San Diego | CA | 1.3 mi | |
| 3 | The Heritage | Apartment Complex | San Diego | CA | 2 mi | |
| 4 | City Heights | Neighborhood/Subdivision | San Diego | CA | 3.5 mi | |
| 5 | Apartment | Apartment Complex | Coronado | CA | 4.2 mi | |
| 6 | Legacy Walk | Condominium/Townhouse | San Diego | CA | 5.1 mi | |
| 7 | Ocean Beach | Apartment Complex | San Diego | CA | 5.2 mi | |
| 8 | Canyon View | Neighborhood/Subdivision | San Diego | CA | 5.4 mi | |
| 9 | Spectrum Center Blvd, Kearny Mesa | Neighborhood/Subdivision | San Diego | CA | 5.6 mi | |
| 10 | Del Cerro | Neighborhood/Subdivision | San Diego | CA | 5.9 mi |
| # | Name | City | State | Overall Rating | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mission Hills | San Diego | CA | 1 mi | |
| 2 | Old Town San Diego | San Diego | CA | 1.8 mi | |
| 3 | Old Town | San Diego | CA | 2 mi | |
| 4 | North Park | San Diego | CA | 2.1 mi | |
| 5 | Broadway Pier | San Diego | CA | 2.3 mi | |
| 6 | Gaslamp Quarter | San Diego | CA | 2.6 mi | |
| 7 | Seaport Village | San Diego | CA | 2.8 mi | |
| 8 | Loma Portal | San Diego | CA | 3.5 mi | |
| 9 | Kensington | San Diego | CA | 3.6 mi | |
| 10 | Serra Mesa | San Diego | CA | 4 mi | |
| 11 | Coronado | Coronado | CA | 4.5 mi | |
| 12 | Point Loma | San Diego | CA | 5.5 mi | |
| 13 | Del Cerro | San Diego | CA | 6.4 mi | |
| 14 | University City | San Diego | CA | 7.9 mi | |
| 15 | East County of San Diego | La Mesa | CA | 8.3 mi |
| Base | Distance |
|---|---|
| San Diego Naval Medical Center | 1.8 mi. |
| MCRD San Diego | 2.1 mi. |
| North Island NAS | 4.2 mi. |
| Coronado Naval Amphibious Base | 5.1 mi. |
| San Diego Naval Base | 5.2 mi. |
| Naval Base Point Loma | 6.3 mi. |
| Miramar MCAS | 8.8 mi. |
| Camp Pendleton | 44 mi. |
